Cuttack: The Orissa High Court has issued a directive prohibiting the disclosure of the names of an Army Major and his fiancé, who were allegedly subjected to custodial torture at the Bharatpur police station. This order applies to all electronic, print, and social media platforms.
The court’s decision comes amid growing public outrage over the incident, which involved severe mistreatment of the Army officer and sexual assault of his fiancée. The couple had approached the police to file a complaint about a road rage incident when they were allegedly detained and tortured.
In addition to the anonymity order, the High Court has directed the Additional Director General (ADG) of Police (Modernisation) to submit a comprehensive status report on the installation and functionality of CCTV cameras at all police stations across the state. This move aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the police force.
The judicial inquiry into the incident, led by Justice Chitta Ranjan Dash, a retired High Court judge, is ongoing. The inquiry commission has been tasked with submitting its findings within 60 days.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reiterated the state government’s commitment to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights. “We are fully committed to ensuring that such incidents do not recur and that those responsible are held accountable,” he stated.
The Odisha government has also requested the Orissa High Court to oversee the ongoing investigation by the Crime Branch of the Odisha Police. Five police personnel from the Bharatpur police station have been suspended, and a case has been registered against them
